The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.

Nisga'a Nation

New Aiyanish, British ColumbiaGrant of a BadgeJune 15, 2004Vol. IV, First Peoples, p. 1

Blazon

Badge

The Hayatskw emblem, namely a Nisga'a copper Argent charged in chief with a beaver embellished Sable and Gules voided of the field;

Symbolism

Badge

The Nisga’a Hayatskw design represents a copper shield, once used as currency and a great sign of wealth and authority in the Nisga’a Nation. Here, it indicates Nisga’a ownership and control of resources. The beaver design on the upper part of the copper shield represents industriousness and plentiful resources. The beaver is also a national symbol for Canada, and it has been important to both Nisga’a history and Canadian history. The copper shield and the beaver jointly represent the wealth and authority of the Nisga’a Nation.